I think you might agree that styling book shelves can be challenging! But…when you get it right…they will transform the look and feel of a room while showcasing your personality and interests. I recently re-styled our shelves to brighten up the family room.

Remembering how “painful” it was last time I styled them, it has taken me several years to get the courage to re-style them. Really though…it is not hard if you take your time and follow a few helpful tips.

This is our “before” and although I love all the items in the shelves it was time for a change. Note; The bookcases are dark wood and most everything in them are dark tones so the items tend to disappear. You may also notice that there are not many books. True! These shelves are used more for decoration than a library. So…book cases might be a “loose term” here. But…the principles work the same…books or no books!

Let’s get started!

8 Tips for Styling A Bookcase

Start by removing everything from your shelves!

1. Remove Everything

Yes…everything! Start with a fresh canvas. Play your favorite music, take your time, and enjoy the process. Have a step ladder handy for the high shelves!

2. Choose a General Color Palette and Theme

You may want to highlight a specific collection of items or introduce a pop of color that coordinates with your room. Keep this choice simple as it will help narrow all the possibilities.

I chose white and brass to contrast and brighten up the dark wood shelves. I gathered a collection of tea pots, milk glass, and brass items that were thrifted and gifted to us by our parents.

3. Gather Items

Shop your home based on your theme. Gather items that might work…this is a time to give yourself lots of choices…choose items with a variety of shapes, textures, materials, and heights. Place everything in a central location to your shelves so they are easily accessible for styling.

4. Create Balance and Symmetry

Place the largest pieces first. This will anchor the shelves. Create symmetry by mirroring the placement of items on either side of the shelves, this will help maintain a cohesive and organized look. Also consider a zig zag pattern down the shelves when placing the larger pieces, this will balance the visual weight by distributing items evenly.

If you are styling two cases…consider mirroring similar items to balance the overall look.

5. Layer and Stack Items

Layer objects by placing smaller items in front of larger ones to add dimension and depth to the shelves.

Stack books horizontally to create platforms for displaying smaller items or to add variation in height across the shelves.

Use wood stands to give height to smaller items…

Or…turn bowls or vases upside down to make stands for smaller items.

Intersperse decorative items such as vases, sculptures, picture frames, and small plants to add personality. Step back often to see the “big picture”.

6. Use Unusual Items for Book Ends

Candlesticks, vases, or ceramic crocks make great book ends.

7. Leave Breathing Room

Leave some empty space between items to allow each piece to stand out and to give your eye a place to rest.

8. Add Lighting

Add lighting with battery candles. I found these on amazon and they have a remote for easy on and off!

By following these tips, you can transform your bookshelves into stylish and visually appealing focal points in any room. Experiment with different arrangements until you find a design that reflects your personal style and enhances the overall aesthetic of your space.